Abdel-Malik al-Houthi

Force in Play

Directing the group's strategy against Saudi Arabia and shipping

Saudi air defenses intercepted missiles aimed at Riyadh and the Eastern Province on Nov. 8. Falling debris damaged an Aramco administrative building in the capital's King Abdullah Financial District, with minor damage and no casualties, the Energy Ministry said.

Updated 3 days ago

Rule Changes

Declared Israeli presence in Somaliland a military target

On December 26, 2025, Israel became the first UN member state to recognize Somaliland as independent, 34 years after the region broke from Somalia during a civil war. Prime Minister Netanyahu called President Abdullahi to announce full diplomatic ties, framing the move through the Abraham Accords and citing Somaliland's fight against terrorism. Within days, Somalia's parliament declared the recognition "null and void," the UN Security Council held an emergency session, and 21 Muslim-majority nations issued a joint condemnation.

Updated 5 days ago

Force in Play

As of September 2026: Leads Ansar Allah from Yemen

Ship crossings through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait fell to 15 on Friday, half the previous day's total. Houthi rebels seized Perim Island that day, completing their takeover of the strait that carries 10 to 12 percent of global trade.

Updated Sep 12